Femi Falana Slams Tinubu’s Economic Policies as Favouring the Rich, Ignoring the Masses

Prominent Nigerian human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), has criticized the economic policies of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, saying they are structured to benefit the wealthy while ordinary Nigerians continue to suffer.

During an interview with Channels Television on Monday, Falana stated bluntly that life has become increasingly difficult for the average citizen, even as top government officials and elites celebrate what they claim are economic gains under Tinubu’s leadership.

“For members of the government and I’m talking of top officials it’s been very rosy. One of them was singing a week ago that things are getting better,” Falana said.

“Of course, for the rich, the bourgeoisie, things are getting better. But for the masses of our people, things are getting tougher because they are going through an excruciating economic crisis.”

The human rights lawyer added that the disparity between the elite and the common man is becoming wider under policies that fail to address the immediate concerns of the poor.

Falana’s comments come as President Tinubu marks his second year in office. The administration has rolled out controversial reforms, including:

• The removal of fuel subsidies

• Forex window unification

• Monetary tightening by the CBN

• Privatization pushes in public services

While these moves have been praised by global financial institutions and elite stakeholders as "bold reforms," critics argue they have worsened inflation, raised transportation costs, and pushed millions deeper into poverty.

Falana’s remarks reflect growing frustration among Nigerians facing soaring food prices, unemployment, and stagnant wages.

“Many are simply fighting for their lives,” he noted.

As the naira continues to fluctuate and inflation remains stubbornly high, public confidence in the administration's economic direction is waning, especially among low- and middle-income families.